Where to start…..

I opted to do this challenge for two reasons, let me explain them both.

In April 2020 just as the first lockdown hit, I was hit by a car when out on my bike. I consider myself incredibly lucky to live to tell the tale, alas the car that hit me was not so fortunate. I broke my leg, shoulder, arm, 11 ribs and punctured my lung. I was in a wheelchair for a bit and without physio due to covid. My goal throughout rehab was always to be better on the bike than I was before and this will be my first 100 since the accident and first sportive since 2019. I am determined this year not just to hit my cycling goals but also to perform better than I did prior to that day in April.

Whilst I am now getting fitter and shedding the inevitable lockdown weight, I do also have the small matter of an op to remove the metal work in my leg between now and the ride, wish me luck.

My own recovery severely tested my mental strength and really opened my eyes to the support a charity like Mind can offer people. In the midst of my recovery I received the devastating news that a much loved colleague at Makita UK lost his own personal mental health battle. Aston Little was a proud family man and now a much missed colleague. Aston wore number 28 for the MK Bolts hockey team and I will proudly wear the same number on this ride. 

I would like to dedicate this fund-raising effort to Aston, his family and friends. I would also like to remind everyone struggling with their own battle that there are people that can help, whether friends, family or the fantastic people at Mind. Please reach out.